Lava Man still makes the news as a leading pony now
A seven time Grade 1 winning 11-year-old gelding, Lava Man, is not making a name for himself or the barn anymore, but he has taken his place among the barn members by being trainer Doug O’Neill’s lead pony.
The son of Slew City Slew has gone on to earn $5.2 million in earnings, but now he will be proud after leading I’ll Have Another to the Kentucky Derby gates on 5 May, 2012, which the latter came out as a victor.
It is pleasing to know that the past greats have some role in the current racing events, because seeing Lava Man out on the Derby day says that he is still good to come out at top events, reminding the old and the new of the racing giants once ran over these racetracks.
The main reason, Lava Man has come out of the retirement facility to do the leading pony job, that he seems to relish so much, is because in the trainer’s eyes, Lava Man has a positive influence on rest of the stable mates.
“It’s awesome. I have to thank his owners who were kind enough to let us keep him,” O’Neill said. “He’s just been a wonderful pony. He’s a happy horse, he’s a healthy horse and if horses talk, what a great coach to have on your team.
“He’s got a lot of energy and when he has someone on his back, he’s so much more relaxed and happy that way. He’s only 11 still and we really thought he would be happier and helpful here.”
Out of Nostalgia’s Star mare Li’l Ms. Leonard, Lava Man is physically fit to be with Doug’ O Neill for the long haul and it is important for a leading pony to have that sort of stamina to be up with the other younger horses, even in training and gallops.
The main thing is that they have to get along with horses, so there is no kicking and biting going on in the barn, but Lava Man has been cool and calm, and responding to his duties like a real professional.
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